McGuinness withdrew from his involvement in the organisation in 1974. Becoming more prominent in the political scene, McGuinness quickly became one of the most known faces in Sinn Fein, along with Gerry Adams.

He became the MP for Mid Ulster in May 1997 and held that role until January 2013.

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness looking at a smashed window at the City Church in the University area of Belfast. Photo: Paul Faith/PA Wire